February 9, 2022

Dear Roslyn Families,

Today we learned that a decision regarding the New York State school mask mandate is likely to be announced after we return from winter recess.

Since day one, Roslyn School District has been consistent in keeping our schools safe, healthy, and open. We will continue to do so in collaboration with the Nassau County Department of Health and the District’s medical director. If the school mask mandate is lifted, masks will become an optional personal choice for all students and staff in our schools.

I know this change will be welcome for some and worrisome for others. Our faculty and staff are prepared to manage the emotions and anxiety that this transition is likely to initiate. Be assured that all of our other mitigation practices will remain in place. 

Our expectation going forward is that the school community will respect each other's choices. Bullying will not be tolerated. We must work together to build a school culture that respects the decisions made by others as it applies to these circumstances.

Keep in mind that whenever the school mask mandate is lifted, masks will still be required on public transportation, therefore students must continue to wear masks on buses to and from school. All other quarantine and isolation protocols will remain in place. Regardless of vaccination status, isolation and quarantine returnees must be masked for five days upon return. 

The road ahead will require us to shift our thinking from pandemic response to endemic planning and recovery. I encourage everyone in the community to stand together so that our students can experience a healthy and joyful learning environment for the rest of the school year.

If you would like to pick up a COVID-19 home test kit prior to the winter recess, please contact your school nurse. 

In the event that more information is released, we will communicate it with you promptly.

Sincerely,

Allison Brown

Superintendent of Schools